Under UK law, accumulating 12 or more penalty points within 3 years triggers an automatic disqualification of at least 6 months. However, you have the right to argue "exceptional hardship" in court — and if successful, the court may reduce or waive the ban.
The threshold for exceptional hardship is high. It must go beyond the ordinary inconvenience of losing a licence. Our solicitors build compelling arguments backed by evidence — financial impact, employment dependency, family obligations — to present the strongest possible case.
Totting Up
12+ points in 3 years triggers a mandatory ban. We argue exceptional hardship at the magistrates' court to prevent disqualification.
Employment Impact
If losing your licence means losing your job or your livelihood, this is a central pillar of an exceptional hardship argument.
Family Dependants
Caring responsibilities for children, elderly or disabled relatives who depend on you driving can support an exceptional hardship case.
New Drivers
Drivers in their first 2 years face a lower threshold of just 6 points. We provide specialist advice for probationary licence holders.